Small group discussions

It is often helpful to talk with others in a supportive environment to share experiences and coping strategies. OITE sponsors small groups to support you as you navigate challenging situations using new skills and approaches.

There are drop-in, on-going, skill-based, and short-term established groups with rotating topics. Groups are facilitated by experts in mental health and well-being and are offered via Zoom to allow trainees and fellows on all campuses to participate. We hope you will join with your camera on, but understand that is not always comfortable, and welcome your participation regardless.

Monthly discussion groups focused on a specific, rotating topics:

• Anxiety, depression, and other challenges
• Difficult conversations and conflict
• Job search stress
• Self-compassion for scientists
• Visiting Fellow challenges

These discussions are advertised weekly in OITE emails and listed in Upcoming OITE Events.

We currently offer two ongoing groups:

• The 'New to NIH' group meets every two weeks on Thursday from 11:00 am -12:00 pm ET
• The 'Research group transitions' group meets every Wednesday from 10:00 – 11:00 am ET

No registration needed; come as often as you like. Reach out to us at oite-wellness@nih.gov for more information.

These groups meet once a week for four weeks and focus on developing resilience skills that address specific challenges faced by trainees and fellows. Some example topics are procrastination, conflict management, setting boundaries, assertive communication. For more information visit Skills and support groups.

These groups are advertised via monthly OITE emails. You must register in advance and should plan to attend all sessions, since the information each week builds on the previous week's content.

These cohort groups meet once a week for six weeks and focus on a specific topic. The discussion is centered around sharing and offering support within the group. Topics include women in science, new postdocs, perfectionism, and others. For more information, please visit Skills and support groups.

These groups are advertised via monthly OITE emails. You must register in advance and should plan to attend all sessions. Consistent attendance fosters a sense of support and the discussion each week builds on the previous week's content.